Troops Foil Boko Haram Mass Abduction, Rescue Over 150 Civilians in Borno
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully foiled a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents, rescuing more than 150 civilians in Borno State.
The incident happened around 2:50 p.m. on March 30, 2026, when troops stationed at Dutse Kura in Sector 2 came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya route.
According to the operation’s spokesperson, Sani Uba, surveillance units detected a group of insurgents attempting to abduct a large number of civilians—men, women, and children—using about 17 vehicles.
In response, the military quickly deployed a reinforcement team, launching a coordinated counter-attack that forced the terrorists to retreat toward the Mangari area.
Sustained pressure from the troops made the insurgents abandon both the captives and their vehicles, effectively stopping the abduction attempt. All rescued civilians were safely moved to Buratai, where they were reunited with their families.
However, during the pursuit along the Bula Zarma–Mangari axis, troops encountered an improvised explosive device, leaving five soldiers seriously injured. The injured personnel were immediately evacuated for specialised medical treatment.
The military said the operation highlights the commitment and sacrifice of troops in protecting civilians and preventing terrorist activities in the North-East. Authorities also reassured residents of continued security efforts, especially as the Easter period approaches.
